Residents can drop off their pumpkins at the Lakeville Police Department during the two-day event, which aims to reduce organic waste while promoting environmental sustainability in the community. The initiative reflects growing efforts by local governments to divert holiday waste from landfills through composting programs.

To participate, residents must prepare their pumpkins properly. All candles and non-organic materials must be removed before drop-off, and painted pumpkins cannot be accepted. These requirements ensure the quality and safety of the final compost product.

"Let's turn those pumpkins into nutrient-rich compost instead of trash," organizers said in promoting the event. The composting process will convert the organic material into usable compost that can benefit local gardens and landscaping projects.

The event is free and open to all Lakeville residents. For additional details about the composting initiative, residents can visit the city's official website at Lakeville mn.gov.